10 Best Crappie Baits 2025 in the United States

The Berkley PowerBait Chroma-Glow Crappie Nibbles are a popular choice for anglers targeting crappie and other panfish. These nibbles come in a convenient 1 oz jar and are designed with a glowing formula in a bright Glow/Chartreuse color, making them highly visible in low light conditions. The size of the nibbles is small and manageable, perfect for various fishing techniques such as mashing them over a hook or using them to fill tube baits.

The dough-like consistency ensures they are easy to work with. One of the standout features is the extreme scent dispersion, as the PowerBait formula slowly dissolves in the water, releasing a scent cloud that is irresistible to fish. This scent and flavor technology have been perfected over 30 years, and fish are known to hold on 18 times longer, increasing the chances of a successful catch.

However, the glowing aspect might not be as effective in heavily stained or muddy waters where visibility is low. Additionally, while the small jar is easy to carry, it may not last long for frequent anglers. The Berkley PowerBait Chroma-Glow Crappie Nibbles are especially suitable for beginner and intermediate anglers looking to improve their panfishing results.

The Berkley Gulp! Alive! Minnow Fishing Bait is a soft plastic lure designed to mimic a real minnow, making it ideal for catching a variety of fish species like crappie, bass, trout, walleye, and panfish. The 1-inch size is convenient and realistic, while the Green Shiner color aims to closely match natural forage, increasing its attractiveness to fish.

One of the standout features is its extreme scent dispersion, which helps to expand your strike zone by drawing in fish from a wider area. This is especially useful if you are fishing in larger bodies of water or areas where fish are spread out. Users also appreciate the convenience of recharging the scent by simply placing the bait back in its jar, avoiding the mess and hassle of live bait while maintaining effectiveness.

On the downside, while the bait is long-lasting, some users might find the price slightly higher compared to traditional soft plastics. Additionally, the powerful scent might not be appealing to all anglers, particularly those who are sensitive to strong smells. If you are looking for a practical and efficient alternative to live bait, the Berkley Gulp! Alive! Minnow Fishing Bait could be a great addition to your tackle box.

The Bobby Garland The Original 2" Baby Shad Soft Plastic Fishing Lure is specifically designed for crappie fishing enthusiasts. It comes in a pack of 18, featuring a solid body and a thin spear-tail that aims to entice crappie effectively. The lure is blue and grey, named 'Blue Thunder,' which can be quite attractive to crappie, given their preference for bright and visible colors underwater.

At 2 inches in length, it's an ideal size for crappie, making it easier for them to bite. The lure's durable plastic material ensures that it can withstand multiple catches without getting easily damaged, making it a long-lasting option for frequent fishers. Additionally, the action of the bait is fantastic, as it mimics the natural movements of a baby shad, increasing the chances of catching fish.

However, it's important to note that this lure doesn't come with any added scent, which might be a drawback for those who prefer scented baits to further attract fish. Despite this, the lure's design and action make it a reliable choice for targeting crappie. This product is well-suited for crappie fishing, especially for those who value durability and realistic movement in their lures.